A bombshell CNN report has claimed that Ukraine could be behind a recent drone strike against a Wagner-backed fighter group in Sudan.

CNN, quoting sources in the Ukrainian military, reported that ‘Ukrainian special services were likely responsible’ for a series of drone strikes against Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The group is militarily backed by Wagner and is fighting the Sudanese government for control of the country.

CNN declined to confirm the claims made by the Ukrainian source, however, it noted that the pattern of the drone strikes was quite similar to that observed in the Russia-Ukraine war, and the drones used in the strikes were the same as those used by Ukrainian forces.

Ukrainian text was also visible on the drone controller, as per the report.

If these claims are true, this could mean a major provocation against Russia by Ukraine, indicating that the war in Ukraine has spilt over into Africa.

<h2>Sudanese military reacts</h2>

The report cited senior military leaders in the Sudanese military as saying that they were not aware of the alleged role of Ukraine in the drone strikes.

Watch:&nbsp;UK: Supporting Wagner is now a criminal offence

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Earlier this month, RSF was hit by 14 drone strikes near Sudan’s capital, but the Sudanese army does not believe Ukraine was behind them.

US officials also expressed their shock at the report and appeared unaware of the alleged Ukrainian role.

<h2>Wagner’s support to RSF</h2>

The drone strikes against RSF were likely launched on September 8, just two days after Wagner is believed to have supplied it with a large tranche of arms.&nbsp;

Wagner reportedly facilitated a large arms convoy to Sudan via an RSF garrison in al-Zurug, in the country’s southwest near the border with Chad.

<h2>Wagner in Africa</h2>

The influential Russian mercenary group has prominently participated in Moscow's foreign military operations, particularly in Ukraine, and has faced repeated accusations of committing heinous acts. In Africa too, it has contributed to bolstering Moscow's expanding influence and resource acquisition.

Following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, both Ukrainian and Russian forces have been testing FPV drones, arming them with rocket-propelled grenades. These agile and precise munitions can deliver a substantial payload capable of destroying vehicles.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ex-wagner-fighters-struggle-to-find-jobs-in-russia-despite-official-pardon-636824">Also read:&nbsp;Ex-Wagner fighters struggle to find jobs in Russia despite official pardon</a>

Although drones have previously been employed for bomb drops in Ethiopia, Nigeria, and Libya, the deployment of weaponised commercial drones that detonate on impact represents a new development in Africa.

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A bombshell CNN report has claimed that Ukraine could be behind a recent drone strike against a Wagner-backed fighter group in Sudan. CNN, quoting sources in the Ukrainian military, reported that ‘Ukrainian special services were likely responsible’ for a series of drone strikes against Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

A bombshell CNN report has claimed that Ukraine could be behind a recent drone strike against a Wagner-backed fighter group in Sudan. CNN, quoting sources in the Ukrainian military, reported that ‘Ukrainian special services were likely responsible’ for a series of drone strikes against Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The group is militarily backed by Wagner and is fighting the Sudanese government for control of the country. CNN declined to confirm the claims made by the Ukrainian source, however, it noted that the pattern of the drone strikes was quite similar to that observed in the Russia-Ukraine war, and the drones used in the strikes were the same as those used by Ukrainian forces. Ukrainian text was also visible on the drone controller, as per the report. If these claims are true, this could mean a major provocation against Russia by Ukraine, indicating that the war in Ukraine has spilt over into Africa. Sudanese military reacts The report cited senior military leaders in the Sudanese military as saying that they were not aware of the alleged role of Ukraine in the drone strikes. Watch: UK: Supporting Wagner is now a criminal offence × Earlier this month, RSF was hit by 14 drone strikes near Sudan’s capital, but the Sudanese army does not believe Ukraine was behind them. US officials also expressed their shock at the report and appeared unaware of the alleged Ukrainian role. Wagner’s support to RSF The drone strikes against RSF were likely launched on September 8, just two days after Wagner is believed to have supplied it with a large tranche of arms. Wagner reportedly facilitated a large arms convoy to Sudan via an RSF garrison in al-Zurug, in the country’s southwest near the border with Chad. Wagner in Africa The influential Russian mercenary group has prominently participated in Moscow's foreign military operations, particularly in Ukraine, and has faced repeated accusations of committing heinous acts. In Africa too, it has contributed to bolstering Moscow's expanding influence and resource acquisition. Following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, both Ukrainian and Russian forces have been testing FPV drones, arming them with rocket-propelled grenades. These agile and precise munitions can deliver a substantial payload capable of destroying vehicles. Also read: Ex-Wagner fighters struggle to find jobs in Russia despite official pardon Although drones have previously been employed for bomb drops in Ethiopia, Nigeria, and Libya, the deployment of weaponised commercial drones that detonate on impact represents a new development in Africa. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Ukraine ‘likely’ behind drone attacks on Wagner-backed forces in Africa: Report

A Moscow City Court on Tuesday declined to consider the appeal filed by jailed&nbsp;Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich against his pre-trial detention. Instead, the court returned the case to a lower court&nbsp;to deal with unspecified procedural violations.

Nearly six months after his arrest on spying charges,&nbsp;Gershkovich attempted to seek some relief from the court but to no avail. He will now remain in&nbsp;Moscow's Lefortovo prison awaiting his trial, for which no date has been set.

Notably, two previous appeals filed by&nbsp;Gershkovich's lawyers in April and June against the pre-trial detention had failed as well.&nbsp;

"It is unacceptable that&nbsp;Evan&nbsp;Gershkovich&nbsp;and Paul Whelan still languish in Russian prisons on charges that are baseless," US ambassador Lynne Tracy was quoted as saying by Reuters after Tuesday's hearing.&nbsp;

Tracy was referring to Whelan, an American citizen, who is currently serving&nbsp;16 years in a Russian penal colony on spy charges that he&nbsp;denies.

"The United States will not rest until&nbsp;Evan&nbsp;and Paul are safely at home with their families and friends," she added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-reporter-evan-gershkovich-appeals-latest-extension-of-detention-in-russia-629566">Also read |&nbsp;US journalist from WSJ Evan Gershkovich appeals latest extension of detention in Russia</a>

<h2>Gershkovich's arrest&nbsp;</h2>

Gershkovich was arrested by Russia's Federal Security Service, the FSB, successor to the Soviet KGB, in March in the Urals city of Yekaterinburg. According to reports,&nbsp;Gershkovich was covering a story in&nbsp;Yekaterinburg when FSB picked up and detained him.

Gershkovich's arrest on espionage charges has sparked another row between Washington and Moscow. According to Moscow, the journalist&nbsp;was arrested for allegedly acting at the behest of the US to collect “information constituting a state secret about the activities of an enterprise of the Russian military-industrial complex".&nbsp;&nbsp;

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, at the time, held a telephonic conversation with his&nbsp;Russian counterpart&nbsp;Sergei Lavrov and demanded the immediate release of&nbsp;Gershkovich.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/biden-asks-russia-to-let-evan-gershkovich-go-577830">WATCH |&nbsp;Biden asks Russia to let Evan Gershkovich go</a>

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However, Moscow declined the request and said&nbsp;the US was trying to politicise the issue when it wasn't the case.&nbsp;

“Blinken’s attention was drawn to the need to respect the decisions of the Russian authorities, taken in accordance with the law and international obligations of the Russian Federation," read a statement by the Russian foreign ministry.

"It was emphasised that it is unacceptable for officials in Washington and the Western media to whip up a stir with the clear intention of giving this case a political colouring.”

(With inputs from agencies)

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A Moscow City Court on Tuesday declined to consider the appeal filed by jailed Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich against his pre-trial detention. Instead, the court returned the case to a lower court to deal with unspecified procedural violations.

A Moscow City Court on Tuesday declined to consider the appeal filed by jailed Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich against his pre-trial detention. Instead, the court returned the case to a lower court to deal with unspecified procedural violations. Nearly six months after his arrest on spying charges, Gershkovich attempted to seek some relief from the court but to no avail. He will now remain in Moscow's Lefortovo prison awaiting his trial, for which no date has been set. Notably, two previous appeals filed by Gershkovich's lawyers in April and June against the pre-trial detention had failed as well. "It is unacceptable that Evan Gershkovich and Paul Whelan still languish in Russian prisons on charges that are baseless," US ambassador Lynne Tracy was quoted as saying by Reuters after Tuesday's hearing. Tracy was referring to Whelan, an American citizen, who is currently serving 16 years in a Russian penal colony on spy charges that he denies. "The United States will not rest until Evan and Paul are safely at home with their families and friends," she added. Also read | US journalist from WSJ Evan Gershkovich appeals latest extension of detention in Russia Gershkovich's arrest Gershkovich was arrested by Russia's Federal Security Service, the FSB, successor to the Soviet KGB, in March in the Urals city of Yekaterinburg. According to reports, Gershkovich was covering a story in Yekaterinburg when FSB picked up and detained him. Gershkovich's arrest on espionage charges has sparked another row between Washington and Moscow. According to Moscow, the journalist was arrested for allegedly acting at the behest of the US to collect “information constituting a state secret about the activities of an enterprise of the Russian military-industrial complex". US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, at the time, held a telephonic conversation with his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov and demanded the immediate release of Gershkovich. WATCH | Biden asks Russia to let Evan Gershkovich go × However, Moscow declined the request and said the US was trying to politicise the issue when it wasn't the case. “Blinken’s attention was drawn to the need to respect the decisions of the Russian authorities, taken in accordance with the law and international obligations of the Russian Federation," read a statement by the Russian foreign ministry. "It was emphasised that it is unacceptable for officials in Washington and the Western media to whip up a stir with the clear intention of giving this case a political colouring.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Moscow court declines US journalist Evan Gershkovich's appeal in spy case

A missile strike on a market in the Ukrainian town of Kostiantynivka in the eastern region of Donetsk on September 6 killed 16 people. Zelenksy blamed Russia, but was it the result of a Ukrainian air defence missile going off course? The Ukrainian President implored world leaders gathered at the UN General Assembly on Tuesday to stand united against Russia's invasion.

Did Ukraine wrongly blame Russia for market strike? | 'Missile fired by Ukrainian BUK system'

Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday (September 19) addressed the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) for the first time in person since the Russian invasion of Ukrainian soil last year.

Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday (September 19) addressed the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) for the first time in person since the Russian invasion of Ukrainian soil last year. Wearing his trademark military fatigues, Zelensky attempted to use the platform to bring the world's attention to the plight of his country. From accusing Moscow of "weaponising" both food and energy to committing genocide of Ukrainian children to invite global leaders for a peace summit, Zelensky touched upon several topics during his short speech. Russia 'weaponising' both food and energy The Ukrainian leader started the speech by calling out Russia for weaponising many things not just against Ukraine but also against other countries as well. "The aggressor is weaponising many other things, and those things are used not only against our country but against all of yours as well," said Zelensky. "Russia is launching the food prices as weapons. The impact spans from the Atlantic coast of Africa to south-east Asia." Ukraine's push for nuclear disarmament Zelensky took a shot at Russia and its nuclear prowess saying, a permanent member of the Security Council could not be trusted with nuclear weapons. "Terrorists have no right to hold (a) nuclear weapon," he said. Reflecting on the history, Zelensky said Ukraine gave away its nuclear arsenal but the world then “decided Russia should become a keeper of such power”. "History shows it was Russia who deserved nuclear disarmament back in the 1990s." Extend support corridor Zelensky called upon the member nations to extend support to Ukraine and launch a temporary sea export corridor. Ever since Russia pulled out of the Black Sea grain deal, the export of food products from Ukraine to the world has been severely affected, with Moscow vowing to take stern action on any ship passing through the corridor. Zelensky also took shots at Poland, Slovakia and Hungary who imposed their own restriction on Ukrainian grain imports saying it was "alarming" to see how some European countries “play out solidarity in political theatre”. The Ukrainian leader was referring to the recent announcement by the UN, lifting the grain exports from Ukraine to other European nations. Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Ukraine fires 6 Defence Ministers as fighting continues in the east × Russia committing genocide of children Accusing Russia of carrying out "genocide" by abducting children, Zelensky appealed for solidarity from the countries at the Assembly. "Those children in Russia are taught to hate Ukraine and all ties with their families are broken. And this is clearly a genocide," he said. "We know the names of tens of thousands of children and have evidence of hundreds of thousands of others kidnapped by Russia in the occupied territories of Ukraine and later deported." Notably, the International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued an arrest warrant against Russian President Vladimir Putin for the treatment of these children. However, Zelensky, in a rather stinging attack, questioned what was the purpose of such a warrant if sufficient action was not taken in time. "The International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for these crimes and we are trying to get children back home. Fine. Time goes by what will happen with them?" Also read: Russia-Ukraine war: NATO chief warns 'we must prepare for long war' Ukrainian peace formula One of the highlights of Zelensky's speech was his renewed call for a summit of like-minded nations. "We are preparing a Global Peace Summit. I invite all of you, all of you who do not tolerate any aggression -- to jointly prepare the summit," Zelensky said. Zelensky said he plans to present details of his peace formula, presented by him in a virtual address during last year's virtual address to the UNGA. "The Ukrainian peace formula is becoming global. It’s poised to offer solutions and steps that will solve all forms of weaponisation that Russia used against Ukraine and other countries," he said, adding that more than 140 states and international organisations have either fully or partly supported the formula. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Five key points from Zelensky's first in-person address at UNGA

Kim Jong Un's visit to Russia has dominated the headlines this past week. But the question that few have an answer for is how much ammunition does Pyongyang have that it can spare? And what is Kim Jong Un getting in return? So as Russia has been shoring up its ammunition, Kyiv has continued with its steady push towards the Crimean peninsula. In a pre-dawn missile strike, Kyiv struck the port of Sevastopol damaging a large Russian ship and a submarine? But the question is: how much longer can Ukraine, with its manpower and ammunition push ahead with its counter-offensive? Mohammed Saleh gets you the details.

Ukraine captures 'Boyko Towers' of Crimean Peninsula from Russia

Ukraine has sacked six Deputy Defence Ministers and its Secretary of Defence. The Ministry has still not issued an explanation for the firings. Earlier this year, the Former Defence Minister was sacked due to alleged corruption scandals. Is Zelensky trying to wipe out corrupt top officials? Molly Gambhir tells you more.

Gravitas: Ukraine sacks six top defence officials | Is this Zelensky dealing with corruption?

The United States has been trying to rally countries in Ukraine who supported the ongoing United Nations General Assembly while calling out Russia at the forum. Watch the video to know more.

Zelensky at UN General Assembly: We must be united against war crimes

U.S. President Joe Biden appealed to world leaders at the U.N. General Assembly on Tuesday (September 19) to stand with Ukraine against Russian invaders, hoping Republicans in Congress will also take notice.

Biden offers support for Ukraine, warns Russia against brutalizing Ukraine

Georgia on Monday accused a senior Ukrainian official of plotting to overthrow the Black Sea nation's government by organising mass unrest, in the blatest episode of escalating tensions between the ex-Soviet countries.&nbsp;

Kyiv said the claim was "untrue" and called it a Georgian attempt to "demonise" the war-torn country.&nbsp;

Tbilisi has been accused of cooperating with the Kremlin even though Russian forces have deployed to separatist regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia since 2008, when Moscow invaded the tiny Caucasus country.

Georgian security services said the deputy chief of Ukraine's military counterintelligence and Georgia's former deputy interior minister, Giorgi Lortkipanidze, were plotting "destabilisation aimed at a violent overthrow of the government."

It said Georgians fighting Russian forces in Ukraine, including a bodyguard of Georgia's jailed ex-president Mikhail Saakashvili, were among the conspirators being trained near Ukraine's border with Poland.

Ukraine has repeatedly called for Georgia to release Saakashvili, who is now a Ukrainian national and a top advisor to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Kyiv has said that the Georgian authorities are "killing" the ailing politician on Kremlin orders and has demanded his transfer to a clinic abroad.

Georgia in turn has condemned what it said was "an extreme form of escalation in diplomatic relations".

Georgia's security service said anti-government protests "are being planned for October and December, when the European Commission is set to publish its decision on Georgia's EU membership application."&nbsp;

It said the plot "is being carried out with the coordination and funding from a foreign country."

Ukraine denied the allegations.&nbsp;

"This information is untrue," Kyiv's foreign ministry spokesman Oleg Nikolenko said on Facebook.&nbsp;

"The current Georgian authorities are once again trying to demonise Ukraine in order to solve their internal political issues," it said, adding: "The Ukrainian state has not interfered, is not interfering and does not plan to interfere in Georgia's internal affairs."

The EU recognised Georgia's "European perspective" last year, but deferred its membership application while granting candidacy to fellow ex-Soviet Ukraine and Moldova.

That has led to mass anti-government protests in Tbilisi, where the government is facing accusations of backsliding on its commitments to democracy and undermining Georgia's EU membership bid.

Earlier in September, EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said "there is still quite a bit of work to be done" by Tbilisi to be granted formal candidate status.

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Georgia on Monday accused a senior Ukrainian official of plotting to overthrow the Black Sea nation's government by organising mass unrest, in the blatest episode of escalating tensions between the ex-Soviet countries.

Georgia on Monday accused a senior Ukrainian official of plotting to overthrow the Black Sea nation's government by organising mass unrest, in the blatest episode of escalating tensions between the ex-Soviet countries. Kyiv said the claim was "untrue" and called it a Georgian attempt to "demonise" the war-torn country. Tbilisi has been accused of cooperating with the Kremlin even though Russian forces have deployed to separatist regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia since 2008, when Moscow invaded the tiny Caucasus country. Georgian security services said the deputy chief of Ukraine's military counterintelligence and Georgia's former deputy interior minister, Giorgi Lortkipanidze, were plotting "destabilisation aimed at a violent overthrow of the government." It said Georgians fighting Russian forces in Ukraine, including a bodyguard of Georgia's jailed ex-president Mikhail Saakashvili, were among the conspirators being trained near Ukraine's border with Poland. Ukraine has repeatedly called for Georgia to release Saakashvili, who is now a Ukrainian national and a top advisor to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Kyiv has said that the Georgian authorities are "killing" the ailing politician on Kremlin orders and has demanded his transfer to a clinic abroad. Georgia in turn has condemned what it said was "an extreme form of escalation in diplomatic relations". Georgia's security service said anti-government protests "are being planned for October and December, when the European Commission is set to publish its decision on Georgia's EU membership application." It said the plot "is being carried out with the coordination and funding from a foreign country." Ukraine denied the allegations. "This information is untrue," Kyiv's foreign ministry spokesman Oleg Nikolenko said on Facebook. "The current Georgian authorities are once again trying to demonise Ukraine in order to solve their internal political issues," it said, adding: "The Ukrainian state has not interfered, is not interfering and does not plan to interfere in Georgia's internal affairs." The EU recognised Georgia's "European perspective" last year, but deferred its membership application while granting candidacy to fellow ex-Soviet Ukraine and Moldova. That has led to mass anti-government protests in Tbilisi, where the government is facing accusations of backsliding on its commitments to democracy and undermining Georgia's EU membership bid. Earlier in September, EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said "there is still quite a bit of work to be done" by Tbilisi to be granted formal candidate status. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Georgia accuses Ukrainian official of plotting coup

Tensions are rising in eastern Europe as Ukraine prepares to take legal action against its neighboring countries in a trade dispute. Ukraine plans to sue Poland, Hungary, and Slovakia in the world trade organization over their bans on Ukrainian agricultural products.

Ukraine plans lawsuit against Poland, Hungary, & Slovakia | World Business Watch

Drones targeted the western Ukrainian city of Lviv in the early hours of Tuesday (September 19), resulting in a series of explosions and a subsequent warehouse fire.

This incident marks an alarming escalation in security concerns for Lviv, which, until recently, was considered one of Ukraine's safer cities. In August, the city witnessed another incident when three individuals lost their lives due to air strikes.

<h2>Wave of drone attacks unleashed</h2>

Reports indicate that multiple waves of drones appeared in the skies over Lviv around 01:30 GMT, leaving residents alarmed and on edge. An AFP journalist on the ground reported hearing numerous explosions and witnessing the movement of heavy vehicles through the streets, even during the city's nightly curfew.

The Ukrainian Air Force swiftly responded to the drone assault, confirming that drones were indeed attacking the city. Air defence systems were activated to counter the threat, highlighting the gravity of the situation.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-files-lawsuit-against-poland-hungary-and-slovakia-over-grain-import-bans-637289">Ukraine files lawsuit against Poland, Hungary and Slovakia over grain import ban</a>

<h2>Warehouse fire and injuries</h2>

Lviv Mayor Andriy Sadovyi provided updates via Telegram, revealing that the drone attack resulted in an industrial warehouse in one of Lviv's districts catching fire. At least one person was injured in the attack.

Mayor Sadovyi expressed his anger, stating, "All Russians should burn in hell," reflecting the tensions surrounding the conflict.

Also watch |&nbsp;Russia troops participate in Mexico's parade; Mexico President defends Russian presence

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Maksym Kozytskyi, the head of the Lviv region's military administration, reported on rescue efforts, stating that two people, a man, and a woman, were rescued from the rubble in Lviv, reported AFP.

The woman appeared to have escaped without injuries, while the man's condition was described as serious. Thankfully, as the threat subsided, Kozytskyi reassured the public, expressing gratitude to the air defence forces for their response.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Drones targeted the western Ukrainian city of Lviv in the early hours of Tuesday (September 19), resulting in a series of explosions and a subsequent warehouse fire.

Drones targeted the western Ukrainian city of Lviv in the early hours of Tuesday (September 19), resulting in a series of explosions and a subsequent warehouse fire. This incident marks an alarming escalation in security concerns for Lviv, which, until recently, was considered one of Ukraine's safer cities. In August, the city witnessed another incident when three individuals lost their lives due to air strikes. Wave of drone attacks unleashed Reports indicate that multiple waves of drones appeared in the skies over Lviv around 01:30 GMT, leaving residents alarmed and on edge. An AFP journalist on the ground reported hearing numerous explosions and witnessing the movement of heavy vehicles through the streets, even during the city's nightly curfew. The Ukrainian Air Force swiftly responded to the drone assault, confirming that drones were indeed attacking the city. Air defence systems were activated to counter the threat, highlighting the gravity of the situation. Also read | Ukraine files lawsuit against Poland, Hungary and Slovakia over grain import ban Warehouse fire and injuries Lviv Mayor Andriy Sadovyi provided updates via Telegram, revealing that the drone attack resulted in an industrial warehouse in one of Lviv's districts catching fire. At least one person was injured in the attack. Mayor Sadovyi expressed his anger, stating, "All Russians should burn in hell," reflecting the tensions surrounding the conflict. Also watch | Russia troops participate in Mexico's parade; Mexico President defends Russian presence Maksym Kozytskyi, the head of the Lviv region's military administration, reported on rescue efforts, stating that two people, a man, and a woman, were rescued from the rubble in Lviv, reported AFP. The woman appeared to have escaped without injuries, while the man's condition was described as serious. Thankfully, as the threat subsided, Kozytskyi reassured the public, expressing gratitude to the air defence forces for their response. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Drones target Lviv in Ukraine, explosions echo

As world leaders gathered&nbsp;to attend the UN General Assembly, US President Joe Biden is pushing for calling Russia's invasion of Ukraine as "naked aggression". He hit hard at Russia saying that if steps are not taken to cease the war in Ukraine&nbsp;by stopping Moscow, there will be a threat to the independence of all nations.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/exclusive-afghan-women-ask-united-nations-to-restore-right-to-education-under-taliban-rule-637585">Exclusive: 'Taliban think women&nbsp;are good at kitchen or better dead'</a>

“Russia believes that the world will grow weary and allow it to brutalise Ukraine without consequence,"&nbsp;Biden said at the 78th session of the UNGA, which is scheduled to go on till September 26.

"But I ask you this: If we abandon the core principles of the UN Charter to appease an aggressor, can any member state feel confident that they are protected? If we allow Ukraine to be carved up, is the independence of any nation secure?" &nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-president-xi-says-us-and-china-should-and-must-achieve-peaceful-co-existence-637542">Xi Jinping says US and China 'should and must' achieve peaceful co-existence</a>

“That is why the United States together with our Allies and partners around the world will continue to stand with the brave people of Ukraine as they defend their sovereignty and territorial integrity - and their freedom," Biden added. 
&nbsp;

Biden on Climate Change, China&nbsp;

Biden also tackled the issue of climate change and spoke over the much-touted US-China rivalry.&nbsp;

Talking about the recent catastrophe triggered by climate change, including the US heatwave and African floods, Biden said, "From day one of my administration the United States has treated this crisis as the existential threat that it is, not only to us, but for all of humanity."

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/climate-takes-centre-stage-at-un-as-global-temperatures-rise-637601">Climate takes centre-stage at un as global temperatures rise</a>

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The US president, in his nearly 30 minutes of speech, said that as far as rival China is concerned, "I want to be clear and consistent. We seek to responsibly manage the competition between our countries so it does not tip into conflict."

Leaders from several countries are expected to speak at the crucial UNGA meeting. This includes Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

He was sitting in the hall as Joe Biden talked about the Ukraine war.&nbsp;

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As world leaders gathered to attend the UN General Assembly, US President Joe Biden is pushing for calling Russia's invasion of Ukraine as "naked aggression". He hit hard at Russia saying that if steps are not taken to cease the war in Ukraine by stopping Moscow, there will be a threat to the independence of all nations.

As world leaders gathered to attend the UN General Assembly, US President Joe Biden is pushing for calling Russia's invasion of Ukraine as "naked aggression". He hit hard at Russia saying that if steps are not taken to cease the war in Ukraine by stopping Moscow, there will be a threat to the independence of all nations. Also Read | Exclusive: 'Taliban think women are good at kitchen or better dead' “Russia believes that the world will grow weary and allow it to brutalise Ukraine without consequence," Biden said at the 78th session of the UNGA, which is scheduled to go on till September 26. "But I ask you this: If we abandon the core principles of the UN Charter to appease an aggressor, can any member state feel confident that they are protected? If we allow Ukraine to be carved up, is the independence of any nation secure?" Also Read | Xi Jinping says US and China 'should and must' achieve peaceful co-existence “That is why the United States together with our Allies and partners around the world will continue to stand with the brave people of Ukraine as they defend their sovereignty and territorial integrity - and their freedom," Biden added. Biden on Climate Change, China Biden also tackled the issue of climate change and spoke over the much-touted US-China rivalry. Talking about the recent catastrophe triggered by climate change, including the US heatwave and African floods, Biden said, "From day one of my administration the United States has treated this crisis as the existential threat that it is, not only to us, but for all of humanity." Watch | Climate takes centre-stage at un as global temperatures rise × The US president, in his nearly 30 minutes of speech, said that as far as rival China is concerned, "I want to be clear and consistent. We seek to responsibly manage the competition between our countries so it does not tip into conflict." Leaders from several countries are expected to speak at the crucial UNGA meeting. This includes Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. He was sitting in the hall as Joe Biden talked about the Ukraine war. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

'Naked aggression': In UN speech, Biden hits hard at Russia for prolonged war in Ukraine

Kyiv, on Monday (September 18) said it has filed lawsuits at the World Trade Organization (WTO) against European Union (EU) nations, Poland, Hungary and Slovakia, over their ban on Ukrainian grain imports. This comes&nbsp;after Ukrainian officials said that they plan to sue the three neighbouring countries for going against the European Commission’s decision.&nbsp;

<h2>About the lawsuit</h2>

The three Central European countries went against the European Commission’s decision&nbsp;on Friday (Sep 15) which ended restrictions on Ukrainian grains after Poland and Hungary said that they will be implementing their own ban on imports.

The move has since prompted Ukraine to take legal action that officials in Kyiv said they would for nearly a week.&nbsp;Yulia Svyrydenko, first deputy prime minister and economy minister, said Ukraine sees these restrictions as a violation of the EU nations’ international obligations.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-ends-ban-on-ukraine-grain-exports-to-neighbouring-countries-636419">EU ends ban on Ukraine grain exports to neighbouring countries</a>

“It is crucially important for us to prove that individual member states cannot ban imports of Ukrainian goods,” said Svyrydenko, in a statement. She added, “That is why we are filing lawsuits against them.”&nbsp;

“At the same time, we hope that these countries will lift their restrictions and we will not have to settle the matter in courts for a long time,” said the deputy PM, adding that Ukrainian exporters “continue to suffer significant losses” over the bans.&nbsp;

The restrictions in question were imposed by the EU back in May, which allowed Poland, Bulgaria, Hungary, Romania and Slovakia to ban domestic sales of Ukrainian grains to protect their farmers who held the imports responsible for a drop in prices in local markets.

<h2>Poland stands its ground</h2>

The dispute over Ukrainian grain imports has led to an awkward diplomatic spat between Kyiv and Warsaw, which is Ukraine’s staunchest ally against Russia. Even after Ukraine filed the lawsuit, Poland said that it would maintain the ban.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/poland-asks-eu-to-extend-embargo-on-ukraine-grain-kyiv-may-take-legal-action-over-restrictions-635355">Poland asks EU to extend embargo on Ukraine grain; Kyiv may take legal action over restrictions</a>

“We maintain our position, we think it is correct, it results from an economic analysis and powers derived from EU and international law,” said government spokesman Piotr Mueller on Polsat News, as quoted by news agency AFP.&nbsp;

“A complaint before the WTO doesn’t impress us,” the Polish official added. Poland, whose ruling conservative Law and Justice party has sought to attract farmer voters for its campaign ahead of the upcoming elections, has previously said that the cheaper Ukrainian grain makes domestic production unprofitable.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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Kyiv, on Monday (September 18) said it has filed lawsuits at the World Trade Organization (WTO) against European Union (EU) nations, Poland, Hungary and Slovakia, over their ban on Ukrainian grain imports.

Kyiv, on Monday (September 18) said it has filed lawsuits at the World Trade Organization (WTO) against European Union (EU) nations, Poland, Hungary and Slovakia, over their ban on Ukrainian grain imports. This comes after Ukrainian officials said that they plan to sue the three neighbouring countries for going against the European Commission’s decision. About the lawsuit The three Central European countries went against the European Commission’s decision on Friday (Sep 15) which ended restrictions on Ukrainian grains after Poland and Hungary said that they will be implementing their own ban on imports. The move has since prompted Ukraine to take legal action that officials in Kyiv said they would for nearly a week. Yulia Svyrydenko, first deputy prime minister and economy minister, said Ukraine sees these restrictions as a violation of the EU nations’ international obligations. ALSO READ | EU ends ban on Ukraine grain exports to neighbouring countries “It is crucially important for us to prove that individual member states cannot ban imports of Ukrainian goods,” said Svyrydenko, in a statement. She added, “That is why we are filing lawsuits against them.” “At the same time, we hope that these countries will lift their restrictions and we will not have to settle the matter in courts for a long time,” said the deputy PM, adding that Ukrainian exporters “continue to suffer significant losses” over the bans. The restrictions in question were imposed by the EU back in May, which allowed Poland, Bulgaria, Hungary, Romania and Slovakia to ban domestic sales of Ukrainian grains to protect their farmers who held the imports responsible for a drop in prices in local markets. Poland stands its ground The dispute over Ukrainian grain imports has led to an awkward diplomatic spat between Kyiv and Warsaw, which is Ukraine’s staunchest ally against Russia. Even after Ukraine filed the lawsuit, Poland said that it would maintain the ban. ALSO READ | Poland asks EU to extend embargo on Ukraine grain; Kyiv may take legal action over restrictions “We maintain our position, we think it is correct, it results from an economic analysis and powers derived from EU and international law,” said government spokesman Piotr Mueller on Polsat News, as quoted by news agency AFP. “A complaint before the WTO doesn’t impress us,” the Polish official added. Poland, whose ruling conservative Law and Justice party has sought to attract farmer voters for its campaign ahead of the upcoming elections, has previously said that the cheaper Ukrainian grain makes domestic production unprofitable. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ukraine files lawsuit against Poland, Hungary and Slovakia over grain import ban

According to Reuters, the Ukrainian government stated on September 18 that it had fired six deputy ministers of defense. The administration did not provide a rationale for the dismissals, although such measures are customary when a new minister assumes office.

Ukraine fires six defence ministers as fighting continues in East

Ukraine flagged off a vessel carrying grains from the Black Sea port, defying Russian threats of treating civilian vessels as 'potential military targets.'

"The vessel Resilient Africa with 3,000 tonnes of wheat has left the port of Chornomorsk and is heading towards the Bosphorus," Infrastructure Minister Oleksandr Kurakov said on social media.

He said that the ship had also entered the Ukrainian port several weeks earlier through the newly-established corridor, alongside one other vessel that would soon depart for Egypt.

Russia had warned of action after it unilaterally pulled out of an agreement in July that had been brokered by the United Nations and Turkey to allow maritime exports from Ukraine.

Since then, Kyiv created a naval corridor that several cargo ships have used. It mainly transports vessels through the Danube River, and road and rail links into Europe.

<h2>Ukraine: A major producer of grain</h2>

However, due to this, the transport costs have shot up, with some European countries have balked at the consequential local grain prices, and the Danube ports can’t handle the same volume as seaports.

Ukraine is one of the world's major grain producers and mainly grows and exports&nbsp;wheat, corn, and barley.

Also&nbsp;read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-sacks-six-deputy-defence-ministers-after-new-ministers-appointment-637378">Ukraine sacks six deputy defence ministers after new minister’s appointment</a>

Ukraine accounts for 10 per cent of the world wheat market, 15 per cent of the corn market, and 13 per cent of the barley market. With more than 50 % per cent of world trade, it is also the main player in the sunflower oil market, according to the European Commission.

Also&nbsp;read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/freed-american-calls-on-biden-to-end-irans-vile-path-of-keeping-foreigners-imprisoned-637533">Freed American calls on Biden to end Iran’s ‘vile path’ of keeping foreigners imprisoned</a>

According to statistics&nbsp;by the US Department of Agriculture,&nbsp;Ukraine was the world's seventh-largest producer of wheat in 2021/22 with 33 million tonnes.

<h2>Ukraine drowns Russian drones</h2>

Meanwhile, Ukraine on Tuesday said that its air defence systems downed 27 Shahed drones launched overnight in Russia's latest aerial barrage.

"A total of 30 attack UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles) were launched... As a result of combat work, 27 Shaheds were shot down by air defence units," the Ukrainian air force said on social media.

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Ukraine flagged off a vessel carrying grains from the Black Sea port, defying Russian threats of treating civilian vessels as 'potential military targets.' "The vessel Resilient Africa with 3,000 tonnes of wheat has left the port of Chornomorsk and is heading towards the Bosphorus," Infrastructure Minister Oleksandr Kurakov said on social media.

Ukraine flagged off a vessel carrying grains from the Black Sea port, defying Russian threats of treating civilian vessels as 'potential military targets.' "The vessel Resilient Africa with 3,000 tonnes of wheat has left the port of Chornomorsk and is heading towards the Bosphorus," Infrastructure Minister Oleksandr Kurakov said on social media. He said that the ship had also entered the Ukrainian port several weeks earlier through the newly-established corridor, alongside one other vessel that would soon depart for Egypt. Russia had warned of action after it unilaterally pulled out of an agreement in July that had been brokered by the United Nations and Turkey to allow maritime exports from Ukraine. Since then, Kyiv created a naval corridor that several cargo ships have used. It mainly transports vessels through the Danube River, and road and rail links into Europe. Ukraine: A major producer of grain However, due to this, the transport costs have shot up, with some European countries have balked at the consequential local grain prices, and the Danube ports can’t handle the same volume as seaports. Ukraine is one of the world's major grain producers and mainly grows and exports wheat, corn, and barley. Also read | Ukraine sacks six deputy defence ministers after new minister’s appointment Ukraine accounts for 10 per cent of the world wheat market, 15 per cent of the corn market, and 13 per cent of the barley market. With more than 50 % per cent of world trade, it is also the main player in the sunflower oil market, according to the European Commission. Also read | Freed American calls on Biden to end Iran’s ‘vile path’ of keeping foreigners imprisoned According to statistics by the US Department of Agriculture, Ukraine was the world's seventh-largest producer of wheat in 2021/22 with 33 million tonnes. Ukraine drowns Russian drones Meanwhile, Ukraine on Tuesday said that its air defence systems downed 27 Shahed drones launched overnight in Russia's latest aerial barrage. "A total of 30 attack UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles) were launched... As a result of combat work, 27 Shaheds were shot down by air defence units," the Ukrainian air force said on social media. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Ukraine defies Russian threat, sets off grain vessel from Black Sea port

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced to re-shuffle his cabinet to cut down on corruption and secure global confidence subsequently for post-war planning.

Russia-Ukraine war: Ukraine fires 6 Defence Ministers as fighting continues in the east

Ukraine wants to file a complaint with the World Trade Organisation against Poland, Hungary, and Slovakia for their restrictions on Ukrainian agricultural exports, according to Ukrainian officials who told Reuters on Monday.

According to a source, the plea might be submitted "in the near future" and came after the three nations surrounding Ukraine decided to restrict imports of many of its main exports.

Earlier on Monday, Ukrainian Trade Representative Taras Kachka was quoted by Politico as indicating in an interview that Kyiv intended to sue the three nations.

Poland, Bulgaria, Hungary, Romania, Slovakia, and other countries were able to apply restrictions in May that prevented the domestic sale of Ukrainian wheat, maize, rapeseed, and sunflower seeds while allowing the transit of such cargoes for export to other countries.

Following the executive European Commission's decision not to extend its embargo on imports into Ukraine's five EU neighbours, Poland, Slovakia, and Hungary announced their own limitations on the purchase of Ukrainian grain on Friday.

According to Warsaw, Bratislava, and Budapest, such actions are being taken to benefit their local businesses and farmers.

According to Kachka, if Warsaw continued with its extra steps, Ukraine may apply reciprocal restrictions on the import of fruit and vegetables from Poland.

According to Polish Agriculture Minister Robert Telus, the restriction in Warsaw now extends to meals made from the following cereals: maize, wheat and rapeseed.

The leader of Poland's parliamentary foreign affairs department, Radoslaw Fogiel, was quoted by PAP as stating that Ukraine's plan to suit will "reverberate badly in Poland" and that Ukraine should be aware of this.

"Our decision is not aimed at Ukraine, it is dictated by the protection of the Polish farmer and the protection of Poland's interests," Reuters quoted him as saying.

After Ukraine announced it will take steps to tighten supervision of shipments to neighbouring countries, the EU permitted its ban to expire on Friday.

According to Kachka, Kiev would enact a system of "real time" export licences for grains and was prepared to "take on the responsibility to ensure that export from Ukraine is not creating any tsunami in neighbouring countries."

According to data from the farm ministry, 1.4 million tonnes of farm products from Ukraine, out of a total export volume of 4.5 million tons—left the country by train in the first quarter of the 2023–24 July to June season. Train crossings with Poland, Slovakia, and Hungary are used by Ukraine to transport grain. Additionally, Ukraine transported 1 million tonnes of additional oils and oilseeds by rail.

(With inputs from Reuters)

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Ukraine wants to file a complaint with the World Trade Organisation against Poland, Hungary, and Slovakia for their restrictions on Ukrainian agricultural exports, according to Ukrainian officials who told Reuters on Monday.

Ukraine wants to file a complaint with the World Trade Organisation against Poland, Hungary, and Slovakia for their restrictions on Ukrainian agricultural exports, according to Ukrainian officials who told Reuters on Monday. According to a source, the plea might be submitted "in the near future" and came after the three nations surrounding Ukraine decided to restrict imports of many of its main exports. Earlier on Monday, Ukrainian Trade Representative Taras Kachka was quoted by Politico as indicating in an interview that Kyiv intended to sue the three nations. Poland, Bulgaria, Hungary, Romania, Slovakia, and other countries were able to apply restrictions in May that prevented the domestic sale of Ukrainian wheat, maize, rapeseed, and sunflower seeds while allowing the transit of such cargoes for export to other countries. Following the executive European Commission's decision not to extend its embargo on imports into Ukraine's five EU neighbours, Poland, Slovakia, and Hungary announced their own limitations on the purchase of Ukrainian grain on Friday. According to Warsaw, Bratislava, and Budapest, such actions are being taken to benefit their local businesses and farmers. According to Kachka, if Warsaw continued with its extra steps, Ukraine may apply reciprocal restrictions on the import of fruit and vegetables from Poland. According to Polish Agriculture Minister Robert Telus, the restriction in Warsaw now extends to meals made from the following cereals: maize, wheat and rapeseed. The leader of Poland's parliamentary foreign affairs department, Radoslaw Fogiel, was quoted by PAP as stating that Ukraine's plan to suit will "reverberate badly in Poland" and that Ukraine should be aware of this. "Our decision is not aimed at Ukraine, it is dictated by the protection of the Polish farmer and the protection of Poland's interests," Reuters quoted him as saying. After Ukraine announced it will take steps to tighten supervision of shipments to neighbouring countries, the EU permitted its ban to expire on Friday. According to Kachka, Kiev would enact a system of "real time" export licences for grains and was prepared to "take on the responsibility to ensure that export from Ukraine is not creating any tsunami in neighbouring countries." According to data from the farm ministry, 1.4 million tonnes of farm products from Ukraine, out of a total export volume of 4.5 million tons—left the country by train in the first quarter of the 2023–24 July to June season. Train crossings with Poland, Slovakia, and Hungary are used by Ukraine to transport grain. Additionally, Ukraine transported 1 million tonnes of additional oils and oilseeds by rail. (With inputs from Reuters) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Ukraine looking to sue Poland, Hungary, and Slovakia over their bans on food imports

The Ukrainian government dismissed six deputy defence ministers on Monday following the appointment of a new defence minister earlier this month.

The government gave no reason for the dismissals, but such moves are common after a new minister’s appointment. Those removed included Hanna Maliar, who frequently issues public updates on Russia’s war on Ukraine.

Rustem Umerov became defence minister less than two weeks ago, replacing Oleksii Reznikov. The ministry had been dogged by media allegations of corruption while Reznikov was in the post although he faced no corruption allegations himself.

“Rebooting. We (have) started. We continue. (The) Ministry continues to work as usual,” Umerov said in a Facebook post.

The Ukrainska Pravda news site quoted unnamed government sources as saying all the deputy ministers had resigned voluntarily following a request by Umerov and would not be returning to their posts.

It said consultations were underway on candidates to replace them and quoted a source close to the ministry as saying “a complete overhaul is underway” at the ministry.

Umerov has said his priorities include making the ministry the main institution for coordinating Ukrainian defence forces, enhancing the value attached to individual soldiers, developing Ukraine’s military industry and fighting corruption.

Maliar, a war crimes lawyer, had served as a deputy defence minister since 2021 and her latest update on the war in Ukraine appeared on Monday morning.

She faced criticism last week after initially reporting that Ukrainian forces had recaptured an eastern village from Russian forces, but later saying her report was inaccurate and that fighting was still raging around the village. Its capture was then announced by the military the next day, but Russia has since denied losing control of the village.

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The Ukrainian government dismissed six deputy defence ministers on Monday following the appointment of a new defence minister earlier this month. The government gave no reason for the dismissals, but such moves are common after a new minister’s appointment.

The Ukrainian government dismissed six deputy defence ministers on Monday following the appointment of a new defence minister earlier this month. The government gave no reason for the dismissals, but such moves are common after a new minister’s appointment. Those removed included Hanna Maliar, who frequently issues public updates on Russia’s war on Ukraine. Rustem Umerov became defence minister less than two weeks ago, replacing Oleksii Reznikov. The ministry had been dogged by media allegations of corruption while Reznikov was in the post although he faced no corruption allegations himself. “Rebooting. We (have) started. We continue. (The) Ministry continues to work as usual,” Umerov said in a Facebook post. The Ukrainska Pravda news site quoted unnamed government sources as saying all the deputy ministers had resigned voluntarily following a request by Umerov and would not be returning to their posts. It said consultations were underway on candidates to replace them and quoted a source close to the ministry as saying “a complete overhaul is underway” at the ministry. Umerov has said his priorities include making the ministry the main institution for coordinating Ukrainian defence forces, enhancing the value attached to individual soldiers, developing Ukraine’s military industry and fighting corruption. Maliar, a war crimes lawyer, had served as a deputy defence minister since 2021 and her latest update on the war in Ukraine appeared on Monday morning. She faced criticism last week after initially reporting that Ukrainian forces had recaptured an eastern village from Russian forces, but later saying her report was inaccurate and that fighting was still raging around the village. Its capture was then announced by the military the next day, but Russia has since denied losing control of the village. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Ukraine sacks six deputy defence ministers after new minister’s appointment

Russia&nbsp;on Monday (September 18) called on the United Nations' highest court in The Hague, Netherlands, to toss out what it has described as a “hopelessly flawed” case that challenges Moscow’s claim that “genocide” in eastern Ukraine was a pretext for its invasion, last year.&nbsp;

The recent request was made during a hearing at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) or the World Court, where Ukraine filed a lawsuit against Russia&nbsp;days after the war began on February 24, 2022.&nbsp;

The suit brought by Ukraine has “emphatically” denied Moscow’s claim that pro-Russian people in eastern Ukraine were being “subjected to bullying and genocide by the Kyiv regime.”&nbsp;

<h2>‘Hopelessly flawed’: Russia about Ukraine’s case</h2>

Russian representative, Gennady Kuzmin, said Ukraine’s case accusing Russia of abusing the UN Genocide Convention as a reason to launch its war “couldn’t be further from the truth”.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-united-nations-top-court-ukraine-registers-genocide-case-against-russia-457279">At United Nations' top court, Ukraine registers genocide case against Russia</a>

This comes as Kyiv has argued that Russia is abusing international law by saying the invasion was justified to prevent an alleged genocide in eastern Ukraine considering that the treaty does not allow an invasion to stop an alleged genocide.

Kuzmin also went on to say how Ukraine’s legal position is “hopelessly flawed” and “at odds with the longstanding jurisprudence” of the court, urging the ICJ to throw out the case.&nbsp;

“Ukraine insists no genocide has occurred,” said Kuzmin. He added, “That alone should be enough to reject the case. Because according to the court’s jurisprudence, if there was no genocide, there cannot be a violation of the Genocide Convention.”

Russia, reiterating its accusation of Ukraine committing genocide, on Monday said the “Russophobic and neo-Nazi regime in Kyiv” was using the 1948 UN Genocide Convention to which both countries are a party, as a pretext to “drag” a case before the court.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/terrorist-state-ukraine-slams-russia-at-international-court-of-justice-hearing-601468">‘Terrorist state’: Ukraine slams Russia at International Court of Justice hearing</a>

<h2>About the case</h2>

A report by Reuters citing experts said that even if the ruling is in Kyiv’s favour, it would not stop the war but could impact future reparations payments.&nbsp;

In March 2022, the ICJ sided with Ukraine and ordered Russia to “immediately suspend” its military action in Ukraine but it was just a “preliminary ruling”. Not to mention the debate about the court’s competence to rule on the content of the matter since while their rulings are binding, there is no “police force” to enforce them.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-to-face-off-at-international-court-of-justice-over-genocide-claims-636923">Russia, Ukraine to face off at International Court of Justice over genocide claims</a>

Therefore the hearings, which are set to run until September 27, will not delve into the merits of the case but rather focus on legal arguments about its jurisdiction. The ICJ will also hear from 32 other states, all supporting Ukraine’s argument saying that the court has jurisdiction to move the case forward.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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Russia on Monday (September 18) called on the United Nations' highest court in The Hague, Netherlands, to toss out what it has described as a “hopelessly flawed” case that challenges Moscow’s claim that “genocide” in eastern Ukraine was a pretext for its invasion, last year.

Russia on Monday (September 18) called on the United Nations' highest court in The Hague, Netherlands, to toss out what it has described as a “hopelessly flawed” case that challenges Moscow’s claim that “genocide” in eastern Ukraine was a pretext for its invasion, last year. The recent request was made during a hearing at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) or the World Court, where Ukraine filed a lawsuit against Russia days after the war began on February 24, 2022. The suit brought by Ukraine has “emphatically” denied Moscow’s claim that pro-Russian people in eastern Ukraine were being “subjected to bullying and genocide by the Kyiv regime.” ‘Hopelessly flawed’: Russia about Ukraine’s case Russian representative, Gennady Kuzmin, said Ukraine’s case accusing Russia of abusing the UN Genocide Convention as a reason to launch its war “couldn’t be further from the truth”. ALSO READ | At United Nations' top court, Ukraine registers genocide case against Russia This comes as Kyiv has argued that Russia is abusing international law by saying the invasion was justified to prevent an alleged genocide in eastern Ukraine considering that the treaty does not allow an invasion to stop an alleged genocide. Kuzmin also went on to say how Ukraine’s legal position is “hopelessly flawed” and “at odds with the longstanding jurisprudence” of the court, urging the ICJ to throw out the case. “Ukraine insists no genocide has occurred,” said Kuzmin. He added, “That alone should be enough to reject the case. Because according to the court’s jurisprudence, if there was no genocide, there cannot be a violation of the Genocide Convention.” Russia, reiterating its accusation of Ukraine committing genocide, on Monday said the “Russophobic and neo-Nazi regime in Kyiv” was using the 1948 UN Genocide Convention to which both countries are a party, as a pretext to “drag” a case before the court. ALSO READ | ‘Terrorist state’: Ukraine slams Russia at International Court of Justice hearing About the case A report by Reuters citing experts said that even if the ruling is in Kyiv’s favour, it would not stop the war but could impact future reparations payments. In March 2022, the ICJ sided with Ukraine and ordered Russia to “immediately suspend” its military action in Ukraine but it was just a “preliminary ruling”. Not to mention the debate about the court’s competence to rule on the content of the matter since while their rulings are binding, there is no “police force” to enforce them. ALSO READ | Russia, Ukraine to face off at International Court of Justice over genocide claims Therefore the hearings, which are set to run until September 27, will not delve into the merits of the case but rather focus on legal arguments about its jurisdiction. The ICJ will also hear from 32 other states, all supporting Ukraine’s argument saying that the court has jurisdiction to move the case forward. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia calls on top UN court to throw out Ukraine’s ‘hopelessly flawed’ genocide case

Ukraine&nbsp;on Monday (September 18) claimed its forces had broken through a Russian line of defence near the eastern frontline city of Bakhmut amid fierce fighting, reported news agency AFP. This comes after Kyiv had reported recapture of small clutches of land from Russian forces along the southern front and Bakhmut in the eastern Donetsk region.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the Ukrainian government&nbsp;announced the dismissal of six deputy defence ministers after Kyiv appointed a new defence minister earlier this month.&nbsp;

<h2>Ukraine recaptures parts of land near Bakhmut</h2>

In a statement, Ukraine’s ground forces commander Oleksandr Syrskyi, said, “Fierce fighting continues in the area of Bakhmut...As a result of the successful actions of our troops, the enemy’s defence line was broken.”&nbsp;

This comes as Ukrainian troops have reportedly focused their slow-moving counter-offensive which they launched earlier this year to recapture its territory controlled by Moscow.

The efforts have focused in and around the town of Bakhmut, which has seen some of the bloodiest and longest battles of the war.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-two-killed-in-russian-airstrikes-in-ukraine-637189">&nbsp;At least two killed in Russian airstrikes in Ukraine</a>

“Two square kilometres (0.77 square miles) were liberated in the Bakhmut sector,” outgoing Deputy Defence Minister Hanna Maliar told the Ukrainian media, earlier on Monday.&nbsp;

The announcement also came a day Kyiv said its forces had retaken Klishchiivka, a village south of Bakhmut. Ukrainian forces had clawed back 5.2 square kilometres in the south, said Maliar.&nbsp;

She also said that Kyiv’s troops have liberated 51 square kilometres near Bakhmut since the start of the counteroffensive back in June and overall regained more than 260 square km in the south during the counteroffensive. &nbsp;

<h2>Kyiv dismisses six defence ministers</h2>

The Ukrainian government on Monday (Sep 18) dismissed six deputy defence ministers without giving any reason for the decision. Among those dismissed was Maliar, who issued frequent updates on Russia’s war on Ukraine.&nbsp;

She recently came under fire for initially reporting that Ukrainian forces had recaptured Andriivka village near Bakhmut from Russian forces and later admitted that report was inaccurate and that fighting was still raging around the village.&nbsp;

While Andriivka’s capture was announced the next day by Kyiv, Moscow continued to deny losing control of the village.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-claims-to-have-liberated-andriivka-village-near-bakhmut-evacuations-ordered-in-kherson-636276">Ukraine claims to have ‘liberated’ Andriivka village near Bakhmut; evacuations ordered in Kherson</a>

Rustem Umerov who became Ukraine’s defence minister less than two weeks ago after the dismissal of Oleksii Reznikov, in a Facebook post said, “Rebooting. We (have) started. We continue. (The) Ministry continues to work as usual.”&nbsp;

This comes as the Ukrainian defence ministry had been dodging media allegations of corruption when Reznikov was in charge. A report by the Ukrainska Pravda news site citing unnamed government sources said that all deputy ministers had resigned voluntarily following a request by Umerov and would not be returning to their posts.&nbsp;

The Ukrainian media report also said that the government is in the midst of looking for candidates to replace those dismissed, adding that “a complete overhaul is underway” at the ministry.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

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Ukraine on Monday (September 18) claimed its forces had broken through a Russian line of defence near the eastern frontline city of Bakhmut amid fierce fighting, reported news agency AFP.

Ukraine on Monday (September 18) claimed its forces had broken through a Russian line of defence near the eastern frontline city of Bakhmut amid fierce fighting, reported news agency AFP. This comes after Kyiv had reported recapture of small clutches of land from Russian forces along the southern front and Bakhmut in the eastern Donetsk region. Meanwhile, the Ukrainian government announced the dismissal of six deputy defence ministers after Kyiv appointed a new defence minister earlier this month. Ukraine recaptures parts of land near Bakhmut In a statement, Ukraine’s ground forces commander Oleksandr Syrskyi, said, “Fierce fighting continues in the area of Bakhmut...As a result of the successful actions of our troops, the enemy’s defence line was broken.” This comes as Ukrainian troops have reportedly focused their slow-moving counter-offensive which they launched earlier this year to recapture its territory controlled by Moscow. The efforts have focused in and around the town of Bakhmut, which has seen some of the bloodiest and longest battles of the war. ALSO READ | At least two killed in Russian airstrikes in Ukraine “Two square kilometres (0.77 square miles) were liberated in the Bakhmut sector,” outgoing Deputy Defence Minister Hanna Maliar told the Ukrainian media, earlier on Monday. The announcement also came a day Kyiv said its forces had retaken Klishchiivka, a village south of Bakhmut. Ukrainian forces had clawed back 5.2 square kilometres in the south, said Maliar. She also said that Kyiv’s troops have liberated 51 square kilometres near Bakhmut since the start of the counteroffensive back in June and overall regained more than 260 square km in the south during the counteroffensive. Kyiv dismisses six defence ministers The Ukrainian government on Monday (Sep 18) dismissed six deputy defence ministers without giving any reason for the decision. Among those dismissed was Maliar, who issued frequent updates on Russia’s war on Ukraine. She recently came under fire for initially reporting that Ukrainian forces had recaptured Andriivka village near Bakhmut from Russian forces and later admitted that report was inaccurate and that fighting was still raging around the village. While Andriivka’s capture was announced the next day by Kyiv, Moscow continued to deny losing control of the village. ALSO READ | Ukraine claims to have ‘liberated’ Andriivka village near Bakhmut; evacuations ordered in Kherson Rustem Umerov who became Ukraine’s defence minister less than two weeks ago after the dismissal of Oleksii Reznikov, in a Facebook post said, “Rebooting. We (have) started. We continue. (The) Ministry continues to work as usual.” This comes as the Ukrainian defence ministry had been dodging media allegations of corruption when Reznikov was in charge. A report by the Ukrainska Pravda news site citing unnamed government sources said that all deputy ministers had resigned voluntarily following a request by Umerov and would not be returning to their posts. The Ukrainian media report also said that the government is in the midst of looking for candidates to replace those dismissed, adding that “a complete overhaul is underway” at the ministry. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ukraine claims to have broken Russian defence line near Bakhmut

As Russia's war on Ukraine continues for a second year, the global leaders are set to meet at the United Nations on Monday (September 18), where the West will continue to push its agenda to seek the support of developing nations over the conflict.

With the main focus on Russian aggression in Ukraine, this year, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy is expected to attend the annual gathering in New York for the very first time since the conflict broke out.

Also this year, concerns of the Global South will be high on the agenda, in part a reflection of the increased attention put on the developing world by Western nations to secure its backing for the effort to isolate Russia.

Several top-level meetings, that will be transpiring during the General Assembly, will mostly focus on priorities of developing countries in Africa, Latin America and Asia: climate, health, financing for development, and how to get the Sustainable Development Goals - a global "to-do" list created in 2015 - on track.

"This is a year when the countries of the Global South have set the agenda," said Richard Gowan, UN&nbsp;director of the International Crisis Group think tank.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-nato-chief-warns-we-must-prepare-for-long-war-636854"> </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-nato-chief-warns-we-must-prepare-for-long-war-636854">Russia-Ukraine war: NATO chief warns 'we must prepare for long war'</a>

"Non-western countries have played this moment quite effectively," he said. "I think they have taken advantage of the fact that they know that the US, on one hand, and then Russia on the other, want their support."

<h2>Zelensky expected to address General Assembly&nbsp;</h2>

The Ukrainian President is expected to address the General Assembly on Tuesday (September 19) and speak at a UN Security Council meeting on Ukraine on Wednesday. This could also place him next to Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov.

Western diplomats are inclined to demonstrate that their efforts to target Russia over its aggression in Ukraine diplomatically&nbsp;do not mean they cannot highlight other crises and issues of significance to the rest of the world.

"It's not a case of either/or. We need to do both," said British UN&nbsp;Ambassador Barbara Woodward, describing Russia's invasion as "an attack on everything the UN&nbsp;stands for."

Still, a senior European diplomat, speaking on condition of anonymity, cautioned that geopolitical tensions could push more developing countries away from Western-led efforts and toward the BRICS group - Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa - in the hope that it can "better deliver on some of the interests of the developing world."

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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As Russia's war on Ukraine continues for a second year, the global leaders are set to meet at the United Nations on Monday (September 18), where the West will continue to push its agenda to seek the support of developing nations over the conflict.

As Russia's war on Ukraine continues for a second year, the global leaders are set to meet at the United Nations on Monday (September 18), where the West will continue to push its agenda to seek the support of developing nations over the conflict. With the main focus on Russian aggression in Ukraine, this year, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy is expected to attend the annual gathering in New York for the very first time since the conflict broke out. Also this year, concerns of the Global South will be high on the agenda, in part a reflection of the increased attention put on the developing world by Western nations to secure its backing for the effort to isolate Russia. Several top-level meetings, that will be transpiring during the General Assembly, will mostly focus on priorities of developing countries in Africa, Latin America and Asia: climate, health, financing for development, and how to get the Sustainable Development Goals - a global "to-do" list created in 2015 - on track. "This is a year when the countries of the Global South have set the agenda," said Richard Gowan, UN director of the International Crisis Group think tank. Also read: Russia-Ukraine war: NATO chief warns 'we must prepare for long war' "Non-western countries have played this moment quite effectively," he said. "I think they have taken advantage of the fact that they know that the US, on one hand, and then Russia on the other, want their support." Zelensky expected to address General Assembly The Ukrainian President is expected to address the General Assembly on Tuesday (September 19) and speak at a UN Security Council meeting on Ukraine on Wednesday. This could also place him next to Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov. Western diplomats are inclined to demonstrate that their efforts to target Russia over its aggression in Ukraine diplomatically do not mean they cannot highlight other crises and issues of significance to the rest of the world. "It's not a case of either/or. We need to do both," said British UN Ambassador Barbara Woodward, describing Russia's invasion as "an attack on everything the UN stands for." Still, a senior European diplomat, speaking on condition of anonymity, cautioned that geopolitical tensions could push more developing countries away from Western-led efforts and toward the BRICS group - Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa - in the hope that it can "better deliver on some of the interests of the developing world." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia-Ukraine war to take centrestage at UNGA, Zelensky to attend in person

A paper prepared for EU leaders ahead of an October summit is raising concerns. EU risks becoming as dependent on China for batteries as it was on Russia for energy before the Ukraine war. Watch this video for all details.

Will EU become as hooked on Chinese batteries as it was on Russian energy before Ukraine war?

At least two people were killed in overnight Russian airstrikes in Ukraine in the southern region of Kherson.

A72-year-old man and an elderly woman lost their lives, while three others were wounded in the Russian attack, Kherson region governor Oleksandr Prokudin said.

The missiles also struck nearby Beryslav town where four people got injured, Prokudin said.

"The occupiers deliberately attacked a crowded place, dropping explosives near the local bus station."

Odesa region governor Oleh Kiper said the Izmail district, home to Danube River ports, where grains are exported, also came under drone attack, but gave no details of any damage to port or grain infrastructure.

He said that 11 drones had been destroyed in attacks on the region and that an unspecified recreational facility in the small city of Vylkove had been hit. A fire there was quickly extinguished, he added.

Neighbouring Mykolaiv region’s governor said that the falling debris caused a fire in an unused building in the Snihurivka community, which was promptly extinguished, and a blast wave damaged nearby buildings.

Russia launched 24 drones at the Ukrainian southern regions of Odesa and Mykolaiv overnight, of which 18 were shot down and 17 cruise missiles were downed overnight over the Dnipropetrov’s Poltava and Khmelnytskyi regions, Ukraine's air force said in a post on Telegram.

It added that all of the 17 missiles were destroyed over the Dnipropetrovsk, Poltava and Khmelnytskyi regions

<h2>Russia says downed three Ukrainian drones </h2>

Meanwhile, Russia’s defence ministry has said its forces downed three Ukrainian drones over southwestern Crimea.

The ministry said air defence systems destroyed one drone at about 9:30 pm on Sunday (Sept 17), an hour after it said its forces downed two Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicles in the same area.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-f-35b-plane-suspected-to-be-in-air-after-pilot-safely-ejects-after-mishap-637014">US: F-35B fighter jet goes missing after pilot safely ejects</a>

Mikhail Razvozhayev, the Moscow-installed governor of Sevastopol, the largest city in Crimea and a major Black Sea port, said debris from the downed third drone fell over farmland and no damage was done.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-detects-103-chinese-warplanes-near-island-636975">Taiwan detects 103 Chinese warplanes, asks Beijing to stop 'destructive, unilateral action'&nbsp;</a>

Earlier, Russia’s defence ministry said air defence systems also destroyed a Ukrainian drone over the Belgorod region.

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At least two people were killed in overnight Russian airstrikes in Ukraine in the southern region of Kherson. A72-year-old man and an elderly woman lost their lives, while three others were wounded in the Russian attack, Kherson region governor Oleksandr Prokudin said.

At least two people were killed in overnight Russian airstrikes in Ukraine in the southern region of Kherson. A72-year-old man and an elderly woman lost their lives, while three others were wounded in the Russian attack, Kherson region governor Oleksandr Prokudin said. The missiles also struck nearby Beryslav town where four people got injured, Prokudin said. "The occupiers deliberately attacked a crowded place, dropping explosives near the local bus station." Odesa region governor Oleh Kiper said the Izmail district, home to Danube River ports, where grains are exported, also came under drone attack, but gave no details of any damage to port or grain infrastructure. He said that 11 drones had been destroyed in attacks on the region and that an unspecified recreational facility in the small city of Vylkove had been hit. A fire there was quickly extinguished, he added. Neighbouring Mykolaiv region’s governor said that the falling debris caused a fire in an unused building in the Snihurivka community, which was promptly extinguished, and a blast wave damaged nearby buildings. Russia launched 24 drones at the Ukrainian southern regions of Odesa and Mykolaiv overnight, of which 18 were shot down and 17 cruise missiles were downed overnight over the Dnipropetrov’s Poltava and Khmelnytskyi regions, Ukraine's air force said in a post on Telegram. It added that all of the 17 missiles were destroyed over the Dnipropetrovsk, Poltava and Khmelnytskyi regions Russia says downed three Ukrainian drones Meanwhile, Russia’s defence ministry has said its forces downed three Ukrainian drones over southwestern Crimea. The ministry said air defence systems destroyed one drone at about 9:30 pm on Sunday (Sept 17), an hour after it said its forces downed two Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicles in the same area. Also read | US: F-35B fighter jet goes missing after pilot safely ejects Mikhail Razvozhayev, the Moscow-installed governor of Sevastopol, the largest city in Crimea and a major Black Sea port, said debris from the downed third drone fell over farmland and no damage was done. Also read | Taiwan detects 103 Chinese warplanes, asks Beijing to stop 'destructive, unilateral action' Earlier, Russia’s defence ministry said air defence systems also destroyed a Ukrainian drone over the Belgorod region. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

At least two killed in Russian airstrikes in Ukraine

The gathering takes place at a time when dissatisfaction with the Western-led global order is on the rise due to growing disagreements over the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the battle against climate change, and the international financial system.

G77 + China summit sees anti-West emotions as leaders criticise international orders | World DNA

Former US President Donald Trump is back in headlines but this time it is not about the indictment in fact it is also not about his actions at all but rather about what he said - this time the Russian and the US President is on the radar. Watch the video to know what he said.

Trump says had he been in office, Russia-Ukraine War wouldn't have begun | World news | WION

Two cargo ships are en-route Ukraine through a 'humanitarian corridor'. These are the first ships to do so since the Black Sea deal collapsed in July this year.

'Humanitarian corridor' in Black Sea: First Cargo ships sail to Ukraine after Grain Deal collapse

Poland on Sunday (September 17) started enforcement of a European Union ban on all Russian-registered passenger cars which sought entry in the country. This is the latest in a series of sanctions taken against Russia after it invaded Ukraine. 
 
As per the decision of the EU, motor vehicles which have been registered in the Russian Federation will no longer be allowed to enter the 27-member bloc. 
 
“A car registered in Russia has no right to enter Poland,” said Polish Interior Minister Mariusz Kaminski on Saturday, while announcing the ban which came into effect hours later at midnight. 
 
“This is another element of the sanctions imposed on Russia and its citizens in connection with the brutal war in Ukraine, due to the fact that the Russian state today constitutes a threat to international security,” said Kaminski.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/one-ukrainian-drone-shot-down-near-moscow-six-others-over-crimea-russia-636741">Ukrainian drone shot down near Moscow, six others over Crimea: Russia</a>

The step was adopted just days after vehicles with Russian licence plates were banned from entering the territory of the Baltic states of Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia – a joint move which was in accordance with the recent interpretation of the sanctions imposed by the EU on Moscow. 
 
The Baltic states and Poland have remained the most vocal European critics of Russian President Vladimir Putin.&nbsp;

<h2>European Commission's sanctions are 'racist': Russia</h2>

Deputy head of Russia’s Security Council Dmitry Medvedev on Tuesday (September 12) denounced the move of the European Commission as racist. He stated that Moscow could retaliate by recalling its diplomats from Brussels and cutting diplomatic ties with the EU. 
 
Poland shares a border with Kaliningrad, a Russian territory which is an exclave separated from the Russian mainland. The Border Guard agency stated that the ban would remain the same and would not vary from border to border.

WATCH |&nbsp;Trump says had he been in office, Russia-Ukraine War wouldn't have begun | World news | WION

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Along with Kaliningrad, Poland has Ukraine and Belarus on its eastern borders. Otherwise, the country is bordered by NATO allies Germany, Slovakia, Czechia, Lithuania and the EU, where they do not have any border checks. 
 
The website of the Border Guard stated that Russian-tagged cars “will be returned to the non-EU country from which they came, regardless of whether it is Russia or another country. Such actions will be carried out even if the driver of the car is not a citizen of the Russian Federation.”

(With inputs from agencies)

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Poland on Sunday (September 17) started enforcement of a European Union ban on all Russian-registered passenger cars which sought entry in the country. This is the latest in a series of sanctions taken against Russia after it invaded Ukraine.

Poland on Sunday (September 17) started enforcement of a European Union ban on all Russian-registered passenger cars which sought entry in the country. This is the latest in a series of sanctions taken against Russia after it invaded Ukraine. As per the decision of the EU, motor vehicles which have been registered in the Russian Federation will no longer be allowed to enter the 27-member bloc. “A car registered in Russia has no right to enter Poland,” said Polish Interior Minister Mariusz Kaminski on Saturday, while announcing the ban which came into effect hours later at midnight. “This is another element of the sanctions imposed on Russia and its citizens in connection with the brutal war in Ukraine, due to the fact that the Russian state today constitutes a threat to international security,” said Kaminski. ALSO READ | Ukrainian drone shot down near Moscow, six others over Crimea: Russia The step was adopted just days after vehicles with Russian licence plates were banned from entering the territory of the Baltic states of Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia – a joint move which was in accordance with the recent interpretation of the sanctions imposed by the EU on Moscow. The Baltic states and Poland have remained the most vocal European critics of Russian President Vladimir Putin. European Commission's sanctions are 'racist': Russia Deputy head of Russia’s Security Council Dmitry Medvedev on Tuesday (September 12) denounced the move of the European Commission as racist. He stated that Moscow could retaliate by recalling its diplomats from Brussels and cutting diplomatic ties with the EU. Poland shares a border with Kaliningrad, a Russian territory which is an exclave separated from the Russian mainland. The Border Guard agency stated that the ban would remain the same and would not vary from border to border. WATCH | Trump says had he been in office, Russia-Ukraine War wouldn't have begun | World news | WION Along with Kaliningrad, Poland has Ukraine and Belarus on its eastern borders. Otherwise, the country is bordered by NATO allies Germany, Slovakia, Czechia, Lithuania and the EU, where they do not have any border checks. The website of the Border Guard stated that Russian-tagged cars “will be returned to the non-EU country from which they came, regardless of whether it is Russia or another country. Such actions will be carried out even if the driver of the car is not a citizen of the Russian Federation.” (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Poland begins enforcement of European Union ban on cars registered in Russia

The European Union (EU) on Friday (September 15) said that they removed the ban on the import of Ukrainian grains in five member states after Kyiv promised to control its exports. 
 
The invasion of Ukraine by Russia closed off shipping lanes of the Black Sea which was used before the war and resulted in the EU becoming an export destination and a major transit route for Ukrainian grain. 
 
"It has concluded that thanks to the work of the Co-ordination Platform and to the temporary measures introduced on 2 May 2023, the market distortions in the 5 Member States bordering Ukraine have disappeared," said the European Commission, in a statement.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-union-slaps-tiktok-with-fine-of-369mn-over-child-data-636319">European Union slaps TikTok with fine of $369 million over child data breaches</a>

In May, the EU placed restrictions on grain imports to Bulgaria, Hungary, Poland, Romania and Slovakia, and sought to protect their farmers who held the imports responsible for a drop in prices on local markets. 
 
The European Commission stated that "existing measures will expire today" after they run out at midnight. "The market distortions in the 5 Member States bordering Ukraine have disappeared," said the EU's executive arm. 
 
The commission stated that they took the decision after Kyiv decided to implement measures such as an export licensing system within 30 days to "avoid grain surges".

<h2>Poland, Hungary to continue ban</h2>

However, Poland and Hungary will be implementing their own restrictions on the imports of the&nbsp; Ukrainian grain, stated the governments.

"We will extend this ban despite their disagreement, despite the European Commission's disagreement," said&nbsp;Polish PM Mateusz Morawiecki, in a rally held in the northeastern town of Elk.

"We will do it because it is in the interest of the Polish farmer,": he added.&nbsp;Hungary imposed an import ban nationwide&nbsp;on 24 Ukrainian agricultural products, which included grains, vegetables, several meat products and honey, as per a government decree published on Friday.

<h2>EU to control export of maize, wheat</h2>

The EU, in the meantime, said that Ukraine will be implementing measures to control the export of maize, wheat, rapeseed and sunflower seed to avoid upsetting markets in its EU neighbours. The move will delight Ukraine after it had pushed the EU to remove the measures amid a diplomatic spat with Poland. 
 
However, it can enrage Warsaw after the Polish authorities stated that the restrictions would be extended unilaterally even if the measures of the EU expired.

WATCH |&nbsp;China's EV industry faces EU scrutiny

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The measures allowed the products to keep moving across the five countries, however, did not permit them to be sold on the local market. The issue remains particularly sensitive in Poland where elections will be held next month. 
 
The farming regions have extended their strong support to the current populist right-wing government of the Law and Justice party. The stifling of grain exports by Russia from agricultural powerhouse Ukraine has led to global concerns over grain supplies. 
 
Moscow withdrew from the United Nations-brokered deal to allow exports through the Black Sea in July and has since increased attacks on Ukrainian export facilities. 
 
Other routes have been bolsetered by the EU over land and along rivers which have been used for exporting more than 44 million tonnes of grain from Ukraine since the invasion.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The European Union (EU) on Friday (September 15) said that they removed the ban on the import of Ukrainian grains in five member states after Kyiv promised to control its exports.

The European Union (EU) on Friday (September 15) said that they removed the ban on the import of Ukrainian grains in five member states after Kyiv promised to control its exports. The invasion of Ukraine by Russia closed off shipping lanes of the Black Sea which was used before the war and resulted in the EU becoming an export destination and a major transit route for Ukrainian grain. "It has concluded that thanks to the work of the Co-ordination Platform and to the temporary measures introduced on 2 May 2023, the market distortions in the 5 Member States bordering Ukraine have disappeared," said the European Commission, in a statement. ALSO READ | European Union slaps TikTok with fine of $369 million over child data breaches In May, the EU placed restrictions on grain imports to Bulgaria, Hungary, Poland, Romania and Slovakia, and sought to protect their farmers who held the imports responsible for a drop in prices on local markets. The European Commission stated that "existing measures will expire today" after they run out at midnight. "The market distortions in the 5 Member States bordering Ukraine have disappeared," said the EU's executive arm. The commission stated that they took the decision after Kyiv decided to implement measures such as an export licensing system within 30 days to "avoid grain surges". Poland, Hungary to continue ban However, Poland and Hungary will be implementing their own restrictions on the imports of the Ukrainian grain, stated the governments. "We will extend this ban despite their disagreement, despite the European Commission's disagreement," said Polish PM Mateusz Morawiecki, in a rally held in the northeastern town of Elk. "We will do it because it is in the interest of the Polish farmer,": he added. Hungary imposed an import ban nationwide on 24 Ukrainian agricultural products, which included grains, vegetables, several meat products and honey, as per a government decree published on Friday. EU to control export of maize, wheat The EU, in the meantime, said that Ukraine will be implementing measures to control the export of maize, wheat, rapeseed and sunflower seed to avoid upsetting markets in its EU neighbours. The move will delight Ukraine after it had pushed the EU to remove the measures amid a diplomatic spat with Poland. However, it can enrage Warsaw after the Polish authorities stated that the restrictions would be extended unilaterally even if the measures of the EU expired. WATCH | China's EV industry faces EU scrutiny The measures allowed the products to keep moving across the five countries, however, did not permit them to be sold on the local market. The issue remains particularly sensitive in Poland where elections will be held next month. The farming regions have extended their strong support to the current populist right-wing government of the Law and Justice party. The stifling of grain exports by Russia from agricultural powerhouse Ukraine has led to global concerns over grain supplies. Moscow withdrew from the United Nations-brokered deal to allow exports through the Black Sea in July and has since increased attacks on Ukrainian export facilities. Other routes have been bolsetered by the EU over land and along rivers which have been used for exporting more than 44 million tonnes of grain from Ukraine since the invasion. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

EU ends ban on Ukraine grain exports to neighbouring countries

- Ukraine claims to have captured the 'Boiko towers' along the Crimean peninsula - Timbuktu under a blockade after militants launch series of attacks in Mali - Narco gangs use increasingly sophisticated drones & submarines to peddle drugs across the Atlantic

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After the collapse of the grain deal with Russia aimed at ensuring ships exporting via the Black Sea are safe, the first set of cargo ships sailed to war-battered Ukraine to load grain for African and Asian markets, confirmed a Kyiv official on Saturday (September 16). 
 
"The first civilian ships used the temporary corridor to enter Ukrainian ports," said Deputy Prime Minister Oleksandr Kubrakov, in a statement on Facebook. 
 
He stated that the two ships, Aroyat and the Resilient Africa, are on their way to load around 20,000 tonnes of wheat for Asian and African countries. "The vessels are under the flag of Palau," he stated. As per shipping data, the two vessels were on routes in the northern Black Sea.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vladimir-putin-says-russia-ready-to-discuss-the-grain-deal-632259">Russia may revive Black Sea grain deal if Putin's demands are met</a>

“While the UN is not involved in the movement of those vessels, we welcome all efforts for the resumption of normal trade, especially of vital food commodities that help supply and stabilize global food markets," said a UN official, while speaking to Reuters. 
 
"We continue our efforts to facilitate exports for agricultural products from both Ukraine and the Russian Federation,” he added.

<h2>Russia's withdrawal from UN-brokered grain deal</h2>

Russia had quit the grain deal in July, one year after it was brokered by Turkey and the United Nations to guarantee safe passage for shipments of grains which sailed from Ukrainian ports, claiming that the export of its own food and fertiliser was facing obstacles and not enough Ukrainian grain was reaching the countries in need. 
 
After withdrawing from the deal, Russia also escalated attacks on the port infrastructure of Ukraine. 
 
The humanitarian corridor's establishment was announced by Ukraine in the Black Sea in August to circumvent the blockade of Russia. Since then, the corridor has been used by five vessels to exit ports of Ukraine.

WATCH |&nbsp;Black Sea Grain Deal: Turkey's Erdogan fails to convince Putin

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The Black Sea grain deal was finalised with the intention of combatting the global food crisis which had worsened after Ukraine was invaded by Russia in February 2022, as per the United States. Both Ukraine and Russia are leading grain exporters. 
 
The loading and shipping of grains are a test of the ability of Ukraine to reopen shipping lanes at a time when efforts are being made by Russia to re-impose its de facto blockade, after abandoning the grain deal in July. Frequent drone and missile attacks have been launched by Russia on the grain export infrastructure of Ukraine. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

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After the collapse of the grain deal with Russia aimed at ensuring ships exporting via the Black Sea are safe, the first set of cargo ships sailed to war-battered Ukraine to load grain for African and Asian markets, confirmed a Kyiv official on Saturday (September 16).

After the collapse of the grain deal with Russia aimed at ensuring ships exporting via the Black Sea are safe, the first set of cargo ships sailed to war-battered Ukraine to load grain for African and Asian markets, confirmed a Kyiv official on Saturday (September 16). "The first civilian ships used the temporary corridor to enter Ukrainian ports," said Deputy Prime Minister Oleksandr Kubrakov, in a statement on Facebook. He stated that the two ships, Aroyat and the Resilient Africa, are on their way to load around 20,000 tonnes of wheat for Asian and African countries. "The vessels are under the flag of Palau," he stated. As per shipping data, the two vessels were on routes in the northern Black Sea. ALSO READ | Russia may revive Black Sea grain deal if Putin's demands are met “While the UN is not involved in the movement of those vessels, we welcome all efforts for the resumption of normal trade, especially of vital food commodities that help supply and stabilize global food markets," said a UN official, while speaking to Reuters. "We continue our efforts to facilitate exports for agricultural products from both Ukraine and the Russian Federation,” he added. Russia's withdrawal from UN-brokered grain deal Russia had quit the grain deal in July, one year after it was brokered by Turkey and the United Nations to guarantee safe passage for shipments of grains which sailed from Ukrainian ports, claiming that the export of its own food and fertiliser was facing obstacles and not enough Ukrainian grain was reaching the countries in need. After withdrawing from the deal, Russia also escalated attacks on the port infrastructure of Ukraine. The humanitarian corridor's establishment was announced by Ukraine in the Black Sea in August to circumvent the blockade of Russia. Since then, the corridor has been used by five vessels to exit ports of Ukraine. WATCH | Black Sea Grain Deal: Turkey's Erdogan fails to convince Putin The Black Sea grain deal was finalised with the intention of combatting the global food crisis which had worsened after Ukraine was invaded by Russia in February 2022, as per the United States. Both Ukraine and Russia are leading grain exporters. The loading and shipping of grains are a test of the ability of Ukraine to reopen shipping lanes at a time when efforts are being made by Russia to re-impose its de facto blockade, after abandoning the grain deal in July. Frequent drone and missile attacks have been launched by Russia on the grain export infrastructure of Ukraine. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

After collapse of grain deal, first cargo ships sail to Ukraine to load grains

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